Cook County Jail Ministry

The Cook County Jail Ministry was established in 1978, with the support of the First
Baptist Church of Oak Park, and it continues to be one of the ministries that has been
supported by the Church from its inception. Under the leadership of Reverend Andy
Gonzalez, whose life had been radically transformed through his salvation experience
while at Chino State Prison in California, and the Board of the Cook County Jail
Ministry, church services were initiated within the jail. Teams of volunteers were brought
into the jail to invite men and women to be born again, and Bible studies were
conducted.
Following the passing of Reverend Gonzalez, the Board of the Cook County Jail
Ministry, with the support of the First Baptist Church of Oak Park, today continues this
important ministry under the leadership of Marjean Gonzalez and Paul Sengpiehl, both
members of First Baptist. This program has greatly influenced the lives of many who
have grown and continue to grow in their faith and Christian walk.
Opportunities to volunteer with the Jail Ministry are available to church members. The
annual fundraiser for the ministry is held at First Baptist Church of Oak Park.

For more information on the Cook County Jail Ministry,
please click the link below.